Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Dinner Recipe for Busy Weeknights
If you’re in search of a pasta recipe that’s indulgent, flavorful, and incredibly easy to whip up, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Dinner is just what you need. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy enough for date night but is simple enough for a hectic weeknight. The rich, velvety sauce made from garlic, Parmesan cheese, and cream clings to every strand of pasta, delivering bold, comforting flavor in every bite. Whether you serve it on its own or add your favorite protein or veggies, this pasta is a versatile winner. Plus, it’s made with basic ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No stress, just comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients Of Pasta Dinner Recipe
Why You Will Love This Pasta Dinner Recipe
This pasta dinner recipe is quick, creamy, and crowd-pleasing. The garlic and Parmesan blend into a luxurious sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or cozy date nights and can be easily customized with your favorite add-ins. Plus, it’s made with pantry staples—no fancy ingredients needed!
Preparation Process Of Pasta Dinner Recipe
Start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package directions. While the pasta cooks, prepare the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil, sauté garlic until fragrant, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, and let everything simmer until the flavors meld. Top with parsley and serve hot.
Step By Step Instructions
Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta (like fettuccine or spaghetti) and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Make the Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour in heavy cream. Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to warm and thicken slightly.
Add the Cheese: Gradually stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat every strand. Let it simmer together for 1–2 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavor.
Garnish and Serve: Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Top with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve?
- Serve with garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad
- Top with grilled chicken or shrimp
- Pair with roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Drizzle with a bit of truffle oil for extra indulgence
Tips & Variations
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version
Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky flavor
Make it gluten-free by using your favorite GF pasta
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk
Nutrition
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
Recipe Card
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Dinner Recipe for Busy Weeknights
4
servings10
minutes15
minutes520
kcalCreamy, comforting, and irresistibly flavorful, this pasta dinner recipe is the ultimate weeknight indulgence. Made with tender pasta tossed in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce, it’s a satisfying dish that’s both quick to prepare and perfect for family meals. The simplicity of ingredients—pasta, garlic, butter, cream, and cheese—creates a luxurious flavor without the need for complicated steps. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or hosting guests, this recipe delivers restaurant-style results at home. It’s easy to customize with chicken, veggies, or shrimp, making it versatile for any palate or occasion. A must-try for pasta lovers!
Ingredients
(Without list icons as requested)
Fettuccine or spaghetti pasta
Olive oil
Butter
Minced garlic
Heavy cream
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper
Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional: grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for added protein or veggies
Directions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta (like fettuccine or spaghetti) and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Make the Cream Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in heavy cream. Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to warm and thicken slightly.
- Add the Cheese:
- Gradually stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat every strand. Let it simmer together for 1–2 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavor.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Top with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Recipe Video
Notes
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- You can use any pasta shape—penne, linguine, or even bowties work great.
- Double the recipe to feed a crowd or for delicious leftovers.
FAQs
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Dinner Recipe is the ultimate comfort food made simple. Rich, creamy, and incredibly flavorful, it’s a go-to meal your family will ask for again and again. Customize it your way and enjoy a restaurant-worthy dinner at home!
